New York Archdiocese nears $800M abuse deal

The Archdiocese of New York is nearing a settlement of more than $800 million with about 1,300 people who say they were sexually abused by clergy or church leaders, though the deal is not yet final and requires the parties’ approval. Under the proposed terms, claimants could receive at least $250,000 each, with larger awards possible after case reviews; a separate $20 million fund would be divided among holdouts. Plaintiffs’ lawyers have warned that rejecting the deal could lead the archdiocese to seek bankruptcy protection, potentially reducing payouts and prolonging litigation, while the proposal would also require the church to publish and maintain a list of people credibly accused of abuse.